James Robert Clifford, 87, of rural Columbia City, died at 3:25 a.m. Wednesday, April 29, at his home.

He was born September 18, 1927 in Arcola, a son of Oscar and Hazel (Felger) Clifford. As a young boy his family moved to Coesse and he completed his education at Coesse High School.

On Nov. 10, 1945 he enlisted in the United States Army, serving during World War II. He was honorably discharged April 23, 1947.

During the 1950’s he returned to Arcola for a short time and then Fort Wayne before moving to Tennessee in the early 1990s.

He retired from Seyfert’s with 35 years of service.

On Jan. 29, 1994 he married Margaret Mary “Maggie” (Perrella) Love. They made their home in Tennessee until 2002 when they moved to rural Columbia City. Mrs. Clifford died Nov. 15, 2012.

Surviving relatives include four daughters: Susan (Thomas) Ellis, Fort Wayne; Linda (Randall) Collins, Churubusco; Barbara Elbrecht, Fort Wayne; and Dawn (Randy) Gunder, Albion; eight grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; five step children: Harold Love Jr., Georgia; David (Staci) Love, Fort Wayne; Karen (Denny) Burnworth, Columbia City; Rex (Denise) Love, Fort Wayne; and Dennis (Teresa) Love, Fort Wayne; nine step grandchildren; 11 step great grandchildren; three brothers: Frederick Clifford; and Kenneth Clifford, both of Columbia City; and Jerry Clifford, Garrett; and a sister: Joan Bennett, Tennessee.

Three brothers: Paul; Dick; and Charles; preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Friday, May 1, at Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at the funeral home. The burial will be in Union Township Cemetery with military honors presented.

Preferred memorials are to Parkview Home Health & Hospice or Humane Society of Whitley County.